Posted on 8/1/2024 by Singing River Dentistry - Athens
If you have experience with cavities, you know that once the cavity is filled, your worries are over for the most part. The hole in your tooth is fixed, and the infection from the cavity is gone. Many people forget the cavity is even there until the filling falls out. If you have a missing filling, what is your next step?
A Bit About Fillings
Dentists use fillings as a way to repair a tooth when it has a cavity. All cavities start out as tiny holes caused by bacteria on the surface of your tooth enamel. As the hole grows, it cuts more deeply into your tooth. If you do not have the cavity fixed, the bacteria eat away at your tooth until they reach the tooth pulp and cause a serious tooth infection. Once our dentist fills the cavity, your tooth is protected from further damage.
Why Would a Filling Fall Out?
Many people get fillings when they are young and may not have acquired good brushing habits. Often, these fillings occur in the back of their mouths, in the premolars or molars. Many fillings are made from silver amalgam, a mixture of several metals, including silver, tin, and copper. These silver fillings were the standard a few decades ago.
While you may think of a filling as permanent, fillings can age and wear out over time. Amalgam fillings can become brittle and fall out on their own. Also, your molars take a ton of punishment because they are constantly working to crush and chew your food for digestion. It is also not unusual for adults in mid-life or senior adults to get a new cavity in the same tooth as their old cavity, which can lead to fillings falling out. If you crack or chip a tooth, you can lose a filling as well.
What Should I Do?
If you suspect you lost a filling, your first call should be to our dental office. Our dentist can replace your filling with a brand-new one before any damage is done. Why not give our office a call today to schedule an appointment?
About Us - Athens AL | Singing River Dentistry Visit here for more information about the dentists, professional team, and latest technology at our Athens, GA dental clinic. Singing River Dentistry-Athens, 22026 Gateway Blvd Ste A, Athens, AL 35613 • (256) 293-5393 • athens.singingriverdentistry.com • 10/9/2024 • Related Phrases: dentist Athens AL •
If you have experience with cavities, you know that once the cavity is filled, your worries are over for the most part. The hole in your tooth is fixed, and the infection from the cavity is gone. Many people forget the cavity is even there until the filling falls out. If you have a missing filling, what is your next step?